Test Drive: All new 2018 Kia Rio Hatchback

Monday

Jan 8, 2018 at 10:18 AMJan 8, 2018 at 10:18 AM

Greg Zyla More Content Now

Entry Price: $14,200Price as Tested: $19,595

It’s always way more fun to review a car that is all-new, and with the delivery of this week’s test drive, the 2018 Kia Rio, the current streak stays intact. Specifically, many times in the past Test Drive receives the so-called “new year” models that don’t really change much from the prior year. The reasoning is sound, however, as manufacturers usually keep a new generation model for a duration of five years or more.

For us weekly auto review authors, writing about what in reality is the same car as last year poses a “word crafting” situation.

So, when a really brand new model arrives, which is going to happen more and more this year, there’s way more to write about as the new platform cars offer new looks both inside and out, and usually deliver more interior and cargo room, too. This is all true with Kia’s new 2018 Rio, the subcompact car that is really starting to generate respectability here in the states.

Available as a four door sedan or a five door hatchback, our tester came in sharp looking hatchback EX trim, the top line Rio available. An entry LX trim starts at a very economical $14,200 and comes with a manual transmission, five-inch color display, AM/FM/MP3/SiriusXM, USB jack, power door locks, and a host of modern safety features. However, the entry level model does not come with enhanced safety features, and still has crank windows. When you move up to the S model at $16,400, all of the powers are standard, and the safety features like rear view camera are also standard.

The engine and suspension are exactly the same as the mid-level S and top line EX, both of which come with a six-speed automatic transmission, which is optional on the LX. The mid-level S trim adds some nicer interior features while the top line EX comes standard with some extra nice amenities, including a UVO system and automatic emergency braking system, the latter something you don’t usually find on competing subcompact models.

The EX’s UVO system deserves note, as Kia’s exclusive connectivity system features Apple Car Play, Android Auto, Bluetooth hands-free, and other tools for operating you Rio. Considering the EX starts at $18,700 and features all the modern safety equipment, this is the model favored overall by this scribe.

When it comes to the Kia family pecking order, the little Rio might be the company “small fry” in both size and sales numbers, but this new effort will find Kia making a positive impact. Specifically, the entire subcompact division is starting to deliver slightly bigger cars which could make this “new little” Kia a top notch contender.

Although smaller in wheelbase dimensions, once you nestle in behind the wheel you’ll be surprised of how big it feels. It’s also lower to the ground than the previous generation and a bit wider, too. When it comes to the new, upscale and more pleasing exterior design, Kia designers can take a bow as it is indeed one of the best looking of the subcompact bunch in my opinion.

During our weeklong test, over 300 miles were logged in all types of weather; including a five-inch snowstorm where we found the front-drive Kia delivered outstanding traction. Out on the dry highway, the Rio rode comfortably and there’s also more rear legroom than last year which we found useful when transporting several adults with no problem. When it came to sharper corners, you’ll enjoy improved performance thanks to the upgraded strut front with gas shocks and stabilizer bar and rear torsion beam setup. The EX comes with quality Continental all-season 15-inch tires on alloy wheels and four wheel disc brakes, while the LX and S have rear drums and wheel covers. Overall, there’s a new feeling of handling confidence surprisingly similar to competing vehicles we've reviewed in the past like Mini Cooper and Fiat Abarth. (OK, not exactly, but still very good).

Power for all Kia models comes via a 1.6-liter four-cylinder that generates 130 horsepower and 119 lb. ft. of torque. It’s not a powerhouse by any means, but with Rio’s lighter weight, it feels fairly peppy at lower RPMs and can handle most all situations on the road. The EPA estimates are solid at 28 city and 37 highway, which is several MPG better than the 2017 model. The LX with the six speed manual is nearly identical, with one better in the city at 29 and identical 37 highway estimates.

The final tally for our test Kia Rio came in at $19,595 retail thanks to a $125 cargo mat kit and $895 delivery. Check with you Kia dealer for any buyer incentives.

Consumers can feel confident that each and every Rio has most of the modern safety features, from hill start assist to all the traction controls and air bags. However, if you want to step up in both safety and amenities, drive the S or EX first.

Likes: All new design, solid handling, hatchback cargo room, fair price.Dislikes: Lack of available options on LX, could use more power.

— Greg Zyla writes weekly for More Content Now and GateHouse Media publications.

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